Chanel Scarab Minaudière — Pré-Fall / Métiers d’Art 2019 (Egypt) — Rare Collector’s Minaudière

A sculptural jewel from Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2019 offerings, the Scarab Minaudière is a theatrical fusion of ancient symbolism and contemporary haute-accessory craft. Conceived for the house’s Egypt-inspired Pre-Fall / Métiers d’Art moment, this minaudière translates the protective iconography of the scarab into a bejewelled evening clutch — a wearable talisman that reads as much like objet d’art as it does like an accessory. 

Crafted with multi-material precision, the Scarab Minaudière typically features resin panels (or moulded metal), intricate strass/gripoix and diamanté embellishment, enamel and richly hued inlays set into a pale-gold frame and chain. The central beetle motif is executed with layered stones and enamel, giving the piece a museum-quality relief and a jewel-box presence that is instantly recognisable on the red carpet and in collector circles. 

Measured as a substantial minaudière rather than a diminutive trinket, examples in the market have approximate dimensions near 20 × 14 × 7 cm (7.9" × 5.5" × 2.8"), making it one of the larger hard-case evening clutches from the house and large enough to accommodate modern essentials. 

Why collectors prize it

• Runway provenance: It belongs to the Métiers d’Art 2019 narrative—Chanel’s celebrated homage to Egypt—one of the house’s most photographed and contextual seasonal shows. Owning this minaudière is owning a chapter of Chanel’s thematic storytelling. 

• Limited distribution: Produced in strictly limited numbers and released selectively to flagship clients and top boutiques, the Scarab minaudières rarely reappear on the secondary market.

• Strong resale traction: Auction and dealer records show these minaudières command five-figure prices and robust collector demand when available. Recent resale listings and auction appearances reflect significant appreciation and competition among bidders. 

Styling & use

This is an evening minaudière meant to be worn where it will be seen: paired with tonal eveningwear for museum dinners, worn as a statement clutch to cocktail events, or styled with minimalist tailoring so the piece remains the focal point. Its jewel-like finish also makes it suitable for editorial display or as a centerpiece in a curated accessories cabinet.

In short: the Chanel Scarab Minaudière from Métiers d’Art 2019 is a rare, narrative-driven objet d’art — equal parts archaeological fantasy and couture savoir-faire — and a cornerstone acquisition for any serious Chanel collector.